What is a sentence fragment?
A sentence fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought. It lacks either a subject (the person or thing performing the action) or a verb (the action itself), or both.
How to make a fragment a complete sentence:
Here are some common techniques:
1. Add a subject: If the fragment is missing a subject, add a noun or pronoun that performs the action.
* Fragment: Running through the park.
* Complete Sentence: *The children* are running through the park.
2. Add a verb: If the fragment is missing a verb, add a word that shows action or a state of being.
* Fragment: A beautiful, sunny day.
* Complete Sentence: It is a beautiful, sunny day.
3. Combine the fragment with another sentence: Sometimes, you can create a complete sentence by joining the fragment with an existing sentence.
* Fragment: With the smell of fresh-baked bread.
* Complete Sentence: The bakery was bustling with customers, *with the smell of fresh-baked bread* filling the air.
4. Add both a subject and a verb: Sometimes, a fragment needs both a subject and a verb.
* Fragment: The red car parked in the driveway.
* Complete Sentence: The red car *is* parked in the driveway.
Examples:
* Fragment: Because of the rain.
* Complete Sentence: We stayed inside because of the rain.
* Fragment: Climbing the highest mountain.
* Complete Sentence: The climbers dreamed of climbing the highest mountain.
Important Note: While these techniques are helpful, it's crucial to consider the context and intended meaning of the sentence. Sometimes, fragments can be used for stylistic effect in writing, but they should be used intentionally and sparingly.